NEPAL: Farmers across the country are experiencing crop losses as rhesus macaques increasingly enter agricultural areas in search of food. In response, Nepalese researchers are developing artificial intelligence (AI) solutions to help communities protect their farms and improve coexistence between people and wildlife.
For years, farmers have relied on traditional methods such as using drums, dogs, and constant field monitoring to prevent monkeys from damaging crops. However, with the growing challenge of human-wildlife conflict, scientists are now exploring how technology can provide faster and more effective support.
Researchers at Madan Bhandari University of Science and Technology have developed an AI-powered system that can detect monkeys, monitor their behaviour, and send alerts to farmers when the animals approach their fields.
The system uses cameras and machine-learning technology trained with thousands of images to identify macaques and understand their actions. During field testing, it achieved about 88 percent accuracy, giving farmers valuable time to respond before crops are destroyed.
Researcher Progress Jung Thapa said the technology can help farmers make quicker decisions by identifying whether monkeys are only observing an area or already feeding on crops.
Another team from Tribhuvan University’s Institute of Engineering is also testing an AI system that combines monkey detection with ultrasonic deterrents designed to discourage animals from entering farms.
Although the technology is still being improved, experts believe AI could become an important tool in reducing human-wildlife conflict. They also emphasize that long-term solutions require combining technology with community participation, better farming practices, wildlife management, and effective support systems for farmers.
As Nepal continues to explore innovative approaches, researchers hope that artificial intelligence will help farmers protect their livelihoods while promoting peaceful coexistence with wildlife.
Courtesy of Mongabay
